EAST FLAT ROCK -- The weather predictions were dire for Saturday, but organizers of the annual kite festival decided to try to outlast the gloomy forecast. The light morning drizzle didn’t dampen the spirits of the early arrivals. “It’s like a Pooh day-all blustery”, said Rebecca Lofton, age 4, who was commandeering a Strawberry Shortcake kite. A couple of dozen fliers braved the conditions to alternately run with their kites and seek refuge under the canopy on the picturesque grounds of Hillandale Elementary School, where the festival has been held for 9 years. Kids, parents and grandparents alike all had moderate success with the variable winds during the morning hours.

“We certainly have enjoyed better weather conditions in the past, but the participants still had fun. It was wild and wonderful,” said Barbara Hughes, owner of Narnia Studios, sponsors of the nationally sanctioned kiting event. “It was a tough call, but around 12:45 we had to call it a day as the drizzle changed to deluge!” Hughes added. “We hope our 10th anniversary of Mighty Kite Flight brings sunny skies and kite-conducive breezes.” To see images of this year’s Mighty Kite Flight on the internet, go to www.narniastudios.com/mighty_kite_flight.htm